Scientists confirm rare shark exists after decades of absence

In northern Papua New Guinea, researchers have made a significant scientific breakthrough by rediscovering the sailback houndshark, a species that had not been observed since the 1970s. The initial capture of this unique shark was a pregnant female caught near the Gogol River in 1970, which served as the only known specimen for decades. For almost fifty years, no confirmed sightings existed, prompting concerns that the species might have gone extinct, despite various studies and surveys conducted in the region aimed at understanding marine biodiversity. In 2022, excitement surged as six individuals of the sailback houndshark were captured, marking the first confirmed finding of males of the species. Two sharks were caught at depths of 260 feet, followed by a male specimen measuring 28.7 inches caught at roughly 660 feet the next day. This discovery presents the first evidence that the species is still thriving in the waters where it was first identified. Researchers noted that despite its limited sightings in decades, the fact that multiple individuals were observed within such a short timeframe may suggest that the shark population could be more stable than previously thought. However, scientists caution that the sailback houndshark’s habitat is quite restricted, as it has only been recorded in Astrolabe Bay near the Gogol River mouth. Given that this area is specific and vulnerable, increases in fishing activities could jeopardize the species' survival. There is currently a concerning lack of data regarding the biology, behavior, and overall population of the houndshark, leading fans of marine biology to call for increased observation and monitoring efforts. Without proper data, the scientific community cannot ascertain whether the species is stable, in decline, or facing imminent threats. Interestingly, local fishermen played a crucial role in the rediscovery of the species, as they shared knowledge about its previous sightings and timing of their captures. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of local ecological knowledge in conservation efforts, particularly in regions where formal studies are limited. By partnering with the communities who interact with these sharks, researchers could uncover vital information that would aid in the development of effective conservation strategies, ensuring the survival of the sailback houndshark for future generations.